The Apple Growers Association of India and Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers estimate output in Kashmir, will drop 50% this year from 1.87 million metric tons a year ago.
With assembly polls approaching, BJP in Himachal has little time left to address farmers’ demands of MSP, uniform box sizes and relaxation in ‘colour classification’ of apples.
Apple growers have threatened to boycott assembly election. Their demands include 100% duty hike on imported apples, MSP for their produce, and release of dues by state agencies.
Shopian remains tense in the wake of a truck driver's killing allegedly by militants. Hours after the incident, SMS services were blocked in the state.
The government said the state administration will ensure farmers receive payments directly in their bank accounts through direct benefit transfer (DBT).
From Munir’s point of view, a few bumps here and there is par for the course. He isn’t going to drive his dumper truck to its doom. He wants to use it as a weapon.
COMMENTS